Not sure how I've slept on Banh Mi Cali all this time. Totally unassuming hole in the wall making great banh mi for what could be considered pre Covid prices. For the $8 I spent on #6 it was a steal. From my first bite of #6, it was bliss, I think I finished my warmed sandwich in 5 total bites. Perhaps it was a shorter hoagie but it certainly made up for it in taste. First bite, the combination of flavors was delicious and there certainly was a healthy smear of Vietnamese mayo to add to the richness. I typically eschew a large helping of carrots in my Banh mi which they were able to accommodate. In the future I'd ask for double meat if I could. I called about 10 minutes before closing and waited minimally for my order upon arrival. Most likely you'll grab yours to go as there isn't seating from what I could tell. The experienced couple that run this place cannot be any sweeter. Every time I come in, they always welcome me back next time. I'll be back again for sure. Cash is preferred. read more

The bahn mi is delicious. Love the flavors of the meat, pickled veggies, and the crunch of the bread. I like how they just simply put it in the brown bag because, although I've never been to Vietnam, it's giving me Vietnamese street food vibes. I usually visit the other nearby location, but ran into this one when trying to remember where the other one was. The service made me dock some points. I literally stopped by here two days ago and the guy at the counter was amazing! He even asked if I wanted spice or not. Next time around, he did not. I came back today because the sandwich was on my mind & the same guy seemed to be impatient (it doesn't take me long to decide/order). Maybe he was in a bad mood, but it's not the way to go. I had seen someone pay via card last time (even proclaiming that they didn't give her an additional sandwich she wasn't charged for) so I opted to do so today, as I didn't have cash on me this time. I wonder if paying by card triggered the energy lol. He seemed like he had an attitude when I asked if I could pay using tap and tried to take my phone to do so. Since I had seen the woman tap on her own, I told him that I would like to tap it myself. It sucks that they are the cheaper option, but I will definitely be going back to my original bahn mi distributor :). read more

Banh Mi Cali - BBQ Chicken Hoagie - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This is a true mom and pop bánh mì shop, so much so you can hear the couple "bickering" lol. The bread is more like a hoagie (stated on the menu) and lacks the characteristics of the French style crispy baguette that scrapes the roof of your mouth as you bite into it. I ordered the "traditional" and the filling was a little underwhelming. There was no pickled daikon, only carrots, a sprig of cilantro and a sliver of cucumber and a few slices of Vietnamese "ham" aka chả lụa. There was some pâté and maybe butter or mayo, not sure which. Overall the "bánh mì" was tasty but not what one would expect when they think of a Vietnamese bánh mì if you know what I mean. Service is on the slow side. The quality reminds me of something DIY at home rather than a shop that specializes in subs. Also, one last point. It comes untoasted and not sure if it's offered. TL;DR price point is not worth it for what you get and expectations not quite met. read more

Stopped in while passing by and starving, and I am glad I finally gave this place a try. It took a few tries with communication, but I ordered a tofu banh mi. They asked if I wanted hot sauce and accommodated my request for just a little bit. I actually could have stood a little more. The roll was lightly toasted- a little crisp on the outside and warm softness on the inside. Everything was well-seasoned, but while I liked the carrots on top, I wish there had been a better mix of veggies and more cilantro. It would have added to the flavor profile. Still, for $9, I was satisfied and would go there again. read more

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Really hate to give 2 stars for a small Viet establishment, but this is one of, if not most disappointing banh mi sandwiches I've ever had. The bread is similar to a roll versus they key baguette. Filling ratio is way off. Lack of flavor from the filling that was in there too. Even as someone who doesn't live in Philly, I can name several places I'd recommend before this place. Very kind workers of course, but I was expecting more. I think this sandwich may be good for you if you like something very minimal and don't care about taste. read more

Banh Mi Cali - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Bread is too chewy and not crunchy. I dont like the seasoning of bbq pork either. It is just too dry overall. read more

Banh Mi Cali - Bbq pork hoagie - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Stopped by for lunch and it was great. Fantastic chicken Banh mi with the freshest bread, delicious chicken, and the spiciest chili. Server was very nice and helpful. And good value for money. Do Attend. read more

Banh Mi Cali - Chicken Banh Mi - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Banh mi was very good! I got the chicken banh mi and my husband got the pork. Very flavorful and bread was crispy/flaky. Quick and easy lunch. read more

Conveniently located at 9th and Arch, sandwiches are traditionally tasty and coffee is straightforward and not too shabby. Staff is friendly even though may be a bit hard to understand. It was raining out and the female staffer really cared about my safety. There was a small Place to sit at but I opted not to. They also offered a number of non-hoagies too. read more

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The employees speak Vietnamese so food is authentic. Viet sandwiches are $8. The French bread was very good.. soft and fresh. I do wish they would put just a bit more meat but overall they were good. Viet coffee is $5 and pretty decent too. Employees were very nice. Only has a small table with 3 chairs. Small sink to wash your hands. read more

Banh Mi Cali - Front counter - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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I ordered the #6 Vietnamese ham banh mi which has ham, pate, carrots, and some other veggies inside, which was $7. It was super delicious and the pate wasn't too liver-y and was nice and smooth. The carrots & veggies were marinated really well and added a great flavor that helped cut into the flavor of the ham & pate! Like many others have said, the bread here is so great!!!! It's crunchy on the outside (but not too crunchy where it can hurt your mouth) while the inside is nice and soft. I also got an iced Vietnamese coffee which was $4 and amazing!! It's nice & strong coffee and the condensed milk blends super well with it! All in all, a great meal for $11 - what else could you ask for?? Just make sure to bring some cash and you'll be in for a treat read more

Banh Mi Cali - 6. Original Vietnamese Ham Hoagie and Vietnamese Coffee with Condensed Milk in the back - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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The best banh mi in the city! Simple ordering and grabbing it to go. Love the toasted bun, grilled pork, crunchy veggies, and sauce, a perfect ratio of everything. Service is fast and friendly. read more

I went here on a weekday around lunch. An older man was sitting up front and got up to take my order and was pretty friendly. It also only took like 5 minutes to pull together my vegetarian hoagie which was great. Heads up that it is cash only. I took it over to Franklin square since the weather was nice and I was happy with the fresh bread. I didn't get the spicy version but I think I will next time because I think it could use just a tad more flavor. It was still a great lunch for $7. read more

Banh Mi Cali - vegetarian hoagie - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I've been trying different Banh Mi spots and this is my second favorite out of the ones that I've tried. I had the BBQ pork banh mi and it was exceptionally tasty! The roll had just the right amount of crisp, the veggies were fresh and the pork was tender and juicy. It was so good that I ate it while my mouth was still numb after my dentist appointment. I was hungry and this was perfect. The pricing is a bit better than average. $7 is great considering it's a full roll and most places charge a little more. Some even charge more with a shorter roll. That's not gonna work for my inner greedy guy! I'll be back! read more

Banh Mi Cali - Let's see what these are hitting for! - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

this a very straightforward banh mi shop that seems family owned. Most of their Vietnamese hoagies are under $10 and very filling. They kindly ask if you're okay with spicy when you're ordering. They have lots of drink options (soda, tea, bubble tea, Vietnamese coffee, etc) and do have dishes other than the banh mis but the sandwiches are so good that it's all I tend to get. The bread is always just right, fluffy but crunchy. The toppings don't look like much but all the flavor is there so it's not skimpy. read more

Banh Mi Cali - the front of a restaurant - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Overpriced and poorly made banh mi. They charge $8 for a horrible banh mi with minimal fillings. This is not how Vietnamese sandwich should be! For other non-Vietnamese customers who have know idea what it should be, it may be acceptable! For us, NO!!! A perfect example of greed trumps customer satisfaction. Our first time here and also our last. Do not recommend it! Try elsewhere. read more

Order was quick but I felt they were cheap with the protein. Felt like it was mostly bread

I was looking for a quick bite to pick up after a 2-hour bus ride from NYC and am so glad I found this gem. Oftentimes, I find myself craving banh mi and all the shops I like are not walking distance from my house. When visiting Philly, I thought it'd be a great lunch to curb my cravings. Upon entering the shop, I've noticed how homey it feels. It's quite small and a little movement can trigger the motion sensor doorbell (I'm guilty of it multiple times). The nice lady came to greet me as I entered and took my order: Number 6 - Vietnamese ham hoagie. It took some time since it was one lady taking all the orders and the food is made to order so it's understandable. After she's done making my banh mi, I paid in cash and headed to a park to enjoy it. Let me tell you this, I've eaten many banh mi's in NYC from numerous shops throughout my lifetime. This is the first time I've had banh mi crispy on the outside yet so fluffy on the inside. I've never had this texture of baguette from other banh mi shops before. Most of the other banh mi's I've had has a very hard exterior, to the point where it scratches the top of your mouth. I thought those were the best I could find until I found Banh Mi Cali. The filling was really good as well. There was a great amount of pate and ham but I would love it more if there were more pickled carrots. I honestly wish I could bring this shop to NY with me. It's definitely something I will miss and my cravings won't be as satisfied as it used to be because my standards have been upped. If I ever visit Philly again, you'll find me here. read more

Banh Mi Cali - Number 6 - Vietnamese ham hoagie - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Delicious Banh Mi. I got a bbq chicken hoagie which is served as a banh mi style sandwich. The woman who works there is so nice! I ate it too fast to take a picture. It is cash only. read more

I love that their sandwiches aren't too much, starting at $7. Their bread is very fluffy and slightly flaky. I am not the biggest fan that there isn't a whole lot stuffed in the sandwich, but it is cheaper than most banh mi joints. There is a lot of drink options and they offer very fair priced Vietnamese coffee (cold or hot). Cash only! read more

Banh Mi Cali - Menu - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Best tofu banh mi around! Best price for any sandwich in the area. Nice, hard working owners!

I was having a craving for Bahn Mi and so I called ahead to order for pick up. After 10 mins walk, I got my BBQ Pork Bahn mi as soon as I arrived. The protion size is decent. The bun is slightly toasted, so it's crunchy on the outside. Veggies are fresh and BBQ pork was very flavorful! I finished it so quickly that I didn't get a chance to take a picture of the delicious Bahn mi. read more

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Can I give it 10 stars? Maybe we're biased since we used to live around the corner. This is the best banh mi in Philly. Best banh mi in the US. Best banh mi outside of Vietnam. Bread, amazing. Pate, amazing. Mango slush, amazing. Summer rolls, amazing. Service, amazing. Ms. Ly, amazing. Every year or so when we go back to Philly we make a visit like we're visiting our Vietnamese mother. Cash only. Sometime it does get busy but worth the wait. There's a small sitting area in the restaurant. Have to eat it fresh for maximum effects. read more

Banh Mi Cali - Banh mi - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I had to pick up a passport at the Passport Agency, and walked past this place on my way back to the car. Who doesn't like a great Bahn Mi? So I decided to try. It's just a little counter with some chairs to wait in, but it was nice, if not utilitarian. Overall, I was disappointed. First of all, the people in there were really nice, and the prices I saw were very good. I ordered the "traditional" sandwich, with Vietnamese Ham and paté. My first disappointment was the bread. It was a Liscio's roll, which is excellent for a Philly Hoagie, but not for a bahn mi. It was not a French style bread, just a soft hoagie roll. It just wasn't the right fit, no crispy crust. Also, the pickling of the vegetables was either too light, or they weren't pickled at all, and there were no jalapeños, even though I was asked if I wanted spicy, and I said yes. The pâté was too soft, almost a liquid and running out the side, and a very light taste. The only things I could really taste were the bread and the ham. Those were fine, but just not that great. I was bored of it after a few bites. I really wanted to like it, but it just wasn't right for me. Some of the places on Washington Ave. are just so much better, but I guess if you're on this side of the city, it's not the worst, just not spectacular. read more

Owners are friendly. The banh mi is good but i would agree with the other review that's the filling is very minimal. Ordered drinks which were mostly big chunks of ice, the tea basically just filled the in between of the ice. So I agree, it's pricey for the quantity. I think these are easy fixes if they would like to. read more

Stopped by to pick up a bahn mi to go before my bus back home from Philly. This is a small hidden gem in the tip of Chinatown. You can tell that it's authentic when you walk in and you hear the owners of the shop speak vietnamese while playing vietnamese music in the background. You can find sandwiches for less than $5 here which is super affordable! I wish I picked up more before I went back home but based on the one I got, it was enough to land them a 5 star rating on yelp. I got the BBQ Pork Bahn Mi which is #4 on the menu. It came out to $4.75. I got it spicy as well. It took a couple minutes for them to make my sandwich even though I was the only customer so I assumed they were making it fresh. When I finally received my bahn mi, it was still hot. I could not wait till I got home to NYC to finally try the bahn mi. I tried it first thing when I got home after a 3 hour trip home. There was a generous amount of pork in the bahn mi and the spicy sauce that went inside of the bahn mi was what really made the sandwich great. Would definitely recommend this hole in the wall for someone who is in need of a bahn mi fix. FYI this is a cash only store! read more

Banh Mi Cali - Bbq Pork $4.75 - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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This place is close to my office and I was craving a banh mi for lunch so I called ahead and placed my order. I got the standard Vietnamese ham hoagie with everything on it. After a quick walk, I stopped in and my sandwich was ready to go. They put it on a nicely toasted hoagie roll that get very crispy on the outside and still fluffy inside. Inside, it had ham, pate, picked carrots and cucumbers, and some jalapenos (I think?). The pickled veggies were a great balance to the fattiness of the ham and pate. Overall, it's a delicious sandwich. The only thing that could possibly be improved is the ratio of filling to bread, but I would definitely go back for another. Might try the BBQ pork next time! read more

Banh Mi Cali - 6. Original Vietnamese Ham Hoagie - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I love their hoagies !!!! So authentic. I'd order from them every time I'm around the area to get my nails done.

!!! This place is it. I've been looking for that hole in the wall, authentic, family owned Vietnamese shop to get my bahn mi fix. Well folks, the look is over! Bahn Mi Cali provided everything I was looking for. Great prices, good quality sandwiches and the sweetest lady/man to top it off. Definitely going to make this a frequent pit stop. read more

Amazing vietnamese hoagie place, best in Chinatown Philly. I recommend #5 or #6. A full hoagie for only $7 is definitely worth it

Cheap and delicious banh mis. Their bread is delicious and has the perfect crunch to it. Super small shop, so once you order they do have a sign that request you wait outside. I recommend calling ahead to place your order. They do have a special of buy 5 banh mis, get 1 free (great deal). I typically get their Vietnamese ham hoagie and it's delicious. It's pretty big and overall such a great value. The pate and their bread really makes it something special. Their fried spring rolls are pretty great too. Remember to bring cash since they don't accept card. They don't really have definitive hours listed, but when I went on a Friday they said they close at 7pm. read more

Banh Mi Cali - Vietnamese Ham Hoagie - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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A very nice place to grab a Banh Mi Sandwich and a Vietnamese Iced-Coffee! Yes, this place is small, but it is also authentic. I highly recommend this little hole-in-the-wall establishment, which you could easily miss if you do not know where it is. It is not even a couple blocks away from the Chinatown Arch, also! read more

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When you need a quick meal and you are in or near Chinatown, Banh Mi Cali is a good place to know. This Vietnamese take-out place offers a variety of tasty Banh Mis. Though they are made to order (which is good of course) your order never takes too long to prepare. One of my favorite Banh Mis here is the Vietnamese sausage. Its flavorful and filling at the same time. I'm sure I'll grab another Banh Mi at Banh Mi Cali before too long. read more

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When you are tired of the ever emerging bubble tea and smoothie storm happening right now in Chinatown and you want some old school Vietnamese ice coffee of the jet fuel variety, Banh Mi Cali is the jawn. They also have bubble tea and smoothies. I like to get stuff from here as often as I can. When I say I, I mean- I send my wife here all the time to pick me up some. When she brings it back it is all that I hope for... strong, rich, and delicious. Supporting small business every chance we get for this Mom and Pop shop!!! read more

I had a Banh Mi craving and was in Chinatown so stopped by Banh Mi Cali since I heard good things. The shop is small but has a very extensive menu (sandwiches, platters, boba) and a well stocked drink case. The woman who rang me up was so sweet and nice. My combo with ham was delicious. The bread was very good, flaky and light, and the fillings were fresh and generous. I wish it had more veggies for crunch but was overall happy. I'll definitely come back for a banh mi. Cash only and you can get one free if you buy 5 sandwiches- great for a lunch run! read more

This is a tiny little place with few seating. This place is a perfect example of not to judge a book by its cover. I had the chicken Banh Mi and omg it was the best. Really good food and the woman working there is really sweet too. And the price is 5$ but the food is worth so much more. read more

Banh Mi Cali - Chicken Bahn Mi - Vietnamese Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Good is great, customer service is also great! Nicest family owned business in Chinatown I've been to so far.

Don't let its looks fool you! I've been a frequent customer of Banh Mi Cali since I moved to Chinatown area years ago and have developed a good relationship with the owner, who is the sweetest lady on Earth. I'll have to say that some of the Vietnamese dishes (like the rice vermicelli with bbq pork dishes) aren't what I'm typically used to in authentic Vietnamese cuisine but they all taste pretty good. They're probably her own home recipes that she's been making for years before she opened this place and the dishes really do give me a very home cooked meal vibe. As far as the banh mis go... I've been very disappointed by the bread at other banh mi establishments in Chinatown. Often I've seen banh mis made on a soft hoagie roll that looks like its from amorosos but not at Banh Mi Cali! I think it may have the best bread for banh mis in Chinatown and the bread is one of the most important parts! Try the traditional Vietnamese cold cut or the meatball banh mi if you want a more authentic taste. But if you're weary then the BBQ pork and the sausage ones are also pretty good. And don't forget to get the Vietnamese iced coffee to go along with your meal! Warning: don't have it in the evening if you're trying to get to bed early. read more

One of the best banh mi I've ever had. Got the regular pork BBQ and it was SO good! At $7, can't beat the quality for the price. Would rather go here instead of the other banh mi place in Chinatown. read more

I discovered this place a few years ago, and their food is still amazing. Their food is pretty cheap when compared to other places but I think it's the best! Just make sure to call ahead of time to order, and make sure you have cash when you're paying ! read more